Make this moist orange cake that tastes like the classic frozen treat. This recipe features bright citrus flavor and a fluffy orange zest buttercream frosting, perfect for summer parties.
Author:kate
Prep Time:25 min
Cook Time:35 min
Total Time:60 min
Yield:10 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
For the Frosting: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon orange zest
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and orange juice.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the frosting, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated.
Add the orange juice, vanilla extract, orange zest, and salt. Beat on medium-high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread about one-third of the frosting evenly over the top. Place the second layer on top.
Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining orange zest buttercream. Slice and serve this refreshing citrus dessert.
Notes
For an extra moist orange cake, you can poke holes in the warm layers and pour 1/4 cup of orange juice over them before frosting.
If you want a brighter orange color, add one drop of orange food coloring to the batter or frosting.
This cake is a family favorite and tastes best when served slightly chilled.